2004, International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources (IUCN), International Council on Mining & Metals (ICMM)
Humanity faces the challenge of meeting the development needs of a growing population from a shrinking natural resource base. Achieving a balance while doing this requires better understanding and recognition of conservation and development imperatives by all stakeholders, including governments, business and conservation communities. This is a first step towards a more strategic and integrated approach to land use planning and management that helps societies make better-informed decisions.
In July 2003, a major workshop was organised under the auspices of the Dialogue at IUCN’s headquarters in Gland, Switzerland. Several case studies from around the world were reviewed and discussed to lay the foundation for the development of good practice guidance for the mining industry. Those case studies and others are summarised in this publication.
The case studies illustrate how management tools, rehabilitation and restoration processes, together with improved scientific knowledge, can help conserve biodiversity. They also show that mutual benefits can result from stronger collaboration between the mining and conservation sectors, just as they demonstrate the issues on which we are still searching for common ground.
This publication shows how good practice, collaboration and innovative thinking can advance biodiversity conservation worldwide while ensuring that the minerals and products that society needs are produced responsibly.
